Gold Standard

Training for 2016 Begins Now

The Olympics kick off Friday night in London, and you... are still in LA. Better luck next time. Here’s
some help: this is how to start training for 2016 glory. Of course, glory can be attained in many ways...

BOXING

Pulling No Punches on Gardner

The Training: You’re putting on gloves in a ring owned by “Young Dick Tiger,” an
’84 Olympian who’s the nephew of Dick Tiger, the legendary Nigerian champ.Degree of Difficulty: Um, it’s high.

Some Westside Bow-and-Arrowing

The Training: This place was built as a training ground for ’84 Olympians, and the
instructor will tell you it’s all about stance. Although pointing the arrow in the general direction of a
target is also recommended.Degree of Difficulty: High. There are bocce fields on the grounds nearby, which is pretty
distracting. Bocce is fun.

20 Courts of 24-Hour Badminton

The Training: For a true shot to medal in badminton, you need nothing less than the
largest, most hardcore badminton club in Southern California. They’ve got 20 courts here, and it’s open
24 hours for members. Get to work.Degree of Difficulty: Low. Or extremely high. We’re still not sure.

Legs in the Air, in Beverly Hills

The Training: Think about it: treading water, in unison, upside down... while smiling. That
sh*t takes work. Which you’ll admire, drink in hand, while taking in a poolside performance by the
Aqualillies.Degree of Difficulty: Extremely low, unless you’re inspired to join them for a
class—they’re open to the public.